President's Report

Carrie Burke, MAT, LAT, ATC - President

 Happy New Year! 

We’ve had some exciting things happen over the past few months, including the transition to full licensure—a huge milestone!  If you haven’t already, be sure to add LAT to your email signature! 

It was great to see so many of you at the NYS in-person meeting during the EATA Convention . A lot of valuable information was shared, and we’ll be posting updates on the website in the coming weeks . We’re also planning to host a Town Hall in early March  to discuss several upcoming changes, so stay tuned!

As we move through the winter months, please stay safe and warm . We’ve been getting quite a bit of snow down south, so we can only imagine how much our upstate colleagues are seeing! Enjoy all the winter sports the season brings —and remember to practice winter safety!

Looking ahead, we’re excited for Lobby Day in March in Albany , National Athletic Training Month , and of course the NYSATA Conference in June in Rochester . Be sure to check the rest of the newsletter for specific details on these events. As always, please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns .

Finally, keep an eye on your inbox for upcoming leadership nomination opportunities—we encourage you to get involved! 

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President-Elect Report

Chris Napoli, MS, LAT, ATC - President Elect

As we move into the new year, 2026 marks a milestone year for NYSATA. As shared previously, my vision for our Association is grounded in clarity, connection, and long-term organizational strength. The 2026 Annual Meeting will provide an opportunity not only to celebrate our past, but also to reaffirm these values, bringing us together as a stronger profession with a united purpose and a shared commitment to the future.

In conjunction with the 2026 NYSATA Annual Meeting & Conference, we will host two meetings for the Executive Council (EC) and Leadership Committees (LC):

●      Thursday, June 4, 2026

●      Saturday, June 6, 2026, following the conclusion of the educational programming

For those planning to utilize public transportation, please note that the Saturday meeting will conclude no later than 4:00 PM. Additional details, including agendas and logistical information, will be shared later this spring.

Finally, to our members—and the colleagues you know—who will be participating in the 2026 Winter Olympic or Paralympic Games, I want to extend my best wishes for success. We are proud to support you and wish you all the best as you represent your athletes, your profession, and your country.

Good luck, and Go USA!

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Treasurer Report

Adam Hymowitz LAT, ATC - Treasurer

NYSATA is looking to increase membership dues. The increase would be the following: 

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Secretary Report

Missy Wilson, MS, LAT, ATC, CEP - Secretary 

As an athletic trainer, your impact goes far Beyond the Clock. And so does your NATA membership. From exclusive CEU courses you can complete on your own time and advocacy that protects your right to practice, to networking that opens doors long after your patients have gone home, your membership keeps working for you around the clock.

Renew Now

Make sure you opt in to communications with NATA to receive NYSATA communications and be a NYSATA member. 

Membership Update

Increase in overall membership in NYS of 22 total members, or 1.5%. Overall D2 membership is up 97 members, or 2%. Decrease in Associate, increase of 29 in student.

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Regional Reps

Region 1 LI

Nassau, Suffolk

Kristin LoNigro, MSEd, LAT, ATC

College/Univeristy - Academic

Region 1 NYC

Richmond, Kings, Queens, Bronx, New York

Erica Marcano, MS, LAT, ATC, CSCS

Clinic/Outreach 

Region 2

Westchester, Rockland, Putnam, Sullivan, Orange, Dutchess, Ulster

Meg Greiner, MS, LAT, ATC

Secondary School 

Region 3

Montgomery, Delaware, Fulton, Greene, Otsego, Saratoga, Albany, Rensslear, Schenectady, Columbia, Washington, Schoharie, Herkimer

Dave Haverly, MS, LAT, ATC

Emerging Setting 

Region 4

Jefferson, Lewis, St. Lawrence, Franklin, Hamilton, Clinton, Essex, Warren

Jason Pachter, MS, LAT, ATC, CSCS

College/University 

Region 5

Chemung, Tioga, Broome, Oswego, Cayuga, Seneca, Oneida, Cortland, Onondaga, Madison, Tompkins, Schuyler

Kevin Joyce, MSEd, LAT, ATC, CSCS

Secondary School

Region 6

Livingston, Ontario, Monroe, Yates, Stueben, Wayne

Phil Steckley, MS, LAT, ATC, CSCS

College/University

Region 7

Orleans, Cattaraugus, Genesee, Wyoming, Erie, Niagara, Allegany, Chautauqua

Cleon Clayton, MS, LAT, ATC, CPT

Secondary School 

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Region 1 LI Report

Kristin LoNigro, MSEd, LAT, ATC - Representative

Stony Brook University

Isabella Donin (2nd from left) from Stony Brook University won 2nd place In the District II Quiz Bowl. She will continue as part of a three member team to compete in Philadelphia at the NATA Quiz Bowl.

Stony Brook Athletic Training students, faculty and alumni gathered in Boston for the 78th EATA Annual Meeting & Clinical Symposium.

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Region 1 NYC Report

Erica Marcano, MS, LAT, ATC, CSCS - Representative

As the NYSATA Region Rep for NYC, I'm excited to invite you to our annual NATM in NYC Morning Show event! For those of you who have not attended, it has become a tradition in NYC for Athletic Trainers to pick one day to gather together on The TODAY Show Plaza as we promote and bring attention to our profession. TODAY reaches approximately 3 million viewers, so this is your chance to be seen across the country representing our great profession! Personally, this experience has allowed me to meet some wonderful MSAT students, catch up with old and new colleagues, and perhaps most importantly, chat with so many tourists who were checking the Today Show off their NYC bucket list about athletic trainers and what we do. You are encouraged to bring a sign as both you and your sign will be seen nationally during the morning segment of the show, as I found out when AT colleagues nationwide started sharing screenshots on social media. For students and young professionals, it’s an opportunity to network with many already established in the profession - remember, a connection now may lead to an opportunity in the future.  I am still working out details for this year, but I can confirm that we plan to attend at least one morning show on the morning of Friday, March 6, followed by a group breakfast after. We would love to have you join us! I'm linking a short form here to gauge interest, and will follow up with further details for those who are interested in attending. Please feel free to share!  RSVP: https://forms.gle/BUbZfLkpT6T3nxDu6 or email [email protected] with any questions! 

NYSATA was proud to be a sponsor of the 2nd NYC Annual Holiday gAThering, hosted by our own NYC AT Durval Morgan of Morgan Sports Medicine. We loved getting to spend time with our fellow ATs this holiday season!

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Region 2 Report

Meg Greiner MS, LAT, ATC - Representative

Congratulations to Jillian Rogala who represented Marist University in the 2026 EATA D2 Quiz Bowl. Jillian is a senior in the BS AT program at Marist and was a top 3 finisher. She will represent D2 in the 2026 NATA Quiz Bowl in June. Congratulations Jillian and Good Luck. Jillian is second from the right in the picture. 

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Region 3 Report

Dave Haverly, MS, LAT, ATC - Representative 

Members of NYSATA Region 3 convened at South Colonie High School on November 13, 2025, for a complimentary continuing education lecture and laboratory session titled Prevention, Recognition, and Treatment of Exertional Heat Illness, presented by Chris Hummel of Ithaca College. Attendees received two continuing education units (CEUs) for their participation.

On December 11, 2025, NYSATA Region 3 members were invited to participate in a virtual town hall to review the results of two regional surveys: a salary survey and an engagement survey. The findings were shared with members and discussed during the session. The town hall also served as an educational forum addressing the athletic training profession’s transition from certification to licensure. Attendees found the information valuable and appreciated the opportunity for feedback and discussion.

In 2026, plans are underway to host an additional continuing education event, as well as several social gatherings to provide members with opportunities to connect and engage with one another. Further details will be shared as arrangements are finalized.

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Region 5 Report

Kevin Joyce MSEd, LAT, ATC, CSCS - Representative

Cornell University

Justin Valentine joined the Men’s Basketball team on an unforgettable summer tour of Italy, visiting the iconic cities of Rome, Florence, Venice, and Milan. Along the way, the Big Red soaked in historic landmarks, savored world-class cuisine, and dominated on the court, finishing a perfect 3–0 against talented Italian competition. Justin is incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a memorable experience with his team.

Our athletic training staff was proud to contribute to the Cornell Elves Backpack Program this semester, supporting local children and families in need. This effort was led by Charlene Haskell and Danielle Hemly, whose organization and dedication helped make the initiative a success. Through our collective support and generosity, we were able to give back to the community in a meaningful way, and we are grateful to everyone who participated and helped make a positive impact.

Cornell annual staff holiday celebration was hosted this year at the Harris household and included our staff and their families for a fun and festive evening together. The night featured a lively white elephant gift exchange, plenty of laughs, and the opportunity to spend quality time outside of the workplace. It was a great way to celebrate the season, strengthen connections, and enjoy time together as a Cornell athletic training family.

To further our commitment to service and community engagement, our staff also participated in an Adopt-a-Family initiative during the holiday season. Through this effort, we were able to support a local family by providing gifts and essentials to help make their holidays a little brighter. This effort was once again, spearheaded by Charlene Haskell and Danielle Hemly. The response from our staff was overwhelming, and it was inspiring to see everyone come together in the spirit of generosity and teamwork.

SOS

SOS is currently offering CPR classes in the Central NY area. The schedule will be posted on the SOS website (www.sosbones.com). And can also be scheduled by request. Requests can be sent to [email protected]. 

Ithaca

Over winter break, 22 Athletic Training and Pre-Athletic Training students attended the 79^thannual Eastern Athletic Trainers’ Association (EATA) convention in Boston, MA. All ten 2^nd year master’s students had abstracts accepted and presented at the conference. 

Research Abstracts:

Baldin DP, Wang GL, Medina McKeon JM. Single-Limb Jump Height Testing does not Identify Functional Leg Asymmetries Following ACLR: A Critically Appraised Topic.

Burke AD, Tomberelli PM, Medina McKeon JM. External Focus of Attention Instruction Subtly Leads to Reductions in Landing Kinetics: A Critically Appraised Topic. 

Cheeseboro TC, Wolfanger EJ, Mckeon PO, Medina Mckeon JM. The effects of blood flow restriction (BFR) on strength and self-reported function patients with chronic ankle instability (CAI). 

Ehrenfeld CG, Lier AR, McKeon PO, Medina McKeon JM. The Effect of Therapeutic Exercise on Improving Self-Reported Function and Pain in Adults with Subacromial Pain Syndrome (SAPS): A Critically Appraised Topic. 

Gelman NI, Goldstein SE, Kang Y, Medina McKeon JM. Dual-Task Gait Performance Does Not Identify Functional Deficits in Gait After Sport-Related Concussion in Athletes: A Critically Appraised Topic.

Goldstein SE, Gelman NI, Kang Y, Medina McKeon JM. Quantitative Pupillometry Light Reflex Measurements and Concussion History: A Critically Appraised Topic. 

Lier AR, Ehrenfeld CG, McKeon PO, Medina McKeon JM. The Effectiveness of Shoulder Joint Mobilizations on Decreasing Pain and Improving Function in Adults with Subacromial Pain Syndrome: A Critically Appraised Topic. 

Tomberelli PM, Burke AD, McKeon PO, Medina McKeon JM. Effectiveness of External and Internal Focus of Attention on Hip and Knee Flexion During Jump Landing in Female Athletes: A Critically Appraised Topic. 

Wang GL, Baldin DP, Medina McKeon JM. Moderate Knee Kinematic Asymmetries Persist Following Return-To-Sport After ACL Reconstruction: A Critically Appraised Topic. 

Wolfanger EJ, Cheeseboro TC, Kang Y, McKeon PO, Medina McKeon JM. The Role of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation in Rehabilitation of Chronic Ankle Instability: A Critically Appraised Topic.

1^st year master’s student, Sammi Meyer, was awarded the Paul Demartinis Memorial Scholarship from the NYS Athletic Trainers’ Association & was recognized at the conference

AT clinical education coordinator, Patrick McKeon chairs the EATA Abstract Committee* and is a member of the EATA Research Committee.

AT program director, Jennifer McKeon chairs the EATA BOC Compliance Committee and is a member of the EATA Research Committee*.

*Both Patrick & Jennifer were recused from review & voting for all abstracts

IC students in attendance at the EATA symposium

SUNY Cortland

During the summer of 2025, the SUNY Cortland Athletic Training Program celebrated its 50th anniversary. Established in the 1960s by John L. Sciera ’52 as a concentration within the Physical Education Department, the program later became the first undergraduate athletic training program in New York State to receive approval from the National Athletic Trainers’ Association in 1974.

The anniversary celebration, held as part of the university’s alumni reunion weekend, concluded with the re-dedication of the renovated athletic training facility in honor of John L. Sciera ’52. The event was attended by members of the Sciera family, campus dignitaries, current and former faculty and staff, and numerous program alumni.

In January, twenty-four members of the SUNY Cortland Athletic Training Club attended the annual Eastern Athletic Trainers’ Association (EATA) Convention in Boston, Massachusetts. Highlights of the trip included a fourth-place finish in the Division II Quiz Bowl by Megan Kirk, the induction of former Cortland Head Athletic Trainer Bob O’Malley into the EATA 49 Club, and opportunities to connect and network with alumni, students, and professionals across the field.

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Region 6 Report

Phil Steckley, MS, LAT, ATC, CSCS - Representative

The results of the fall salary survey have recently been distributed to regional members. If you would like a copy of the survey, please contact Phil Steckley at [email protected].

Region 6 hosted a Zoom town hall meeting on December 16, 2025, to update members on the newly implemented state licensure regulations. The meeting also provided an opportunity to address questions regarding scope of practice and continuing education requirements. Thank you to all who participated. A recording of the meeting is available at the following link:
https://studio.youtube.com/video/z5AauWHxi1E/edit

Congratulations to Lee Cohen on his retirement from SUNY Brockport in December, following an outstanding career as Head Athletic Trainer since 1986. We wish Lee all the best as he begins this next chapter.

Region 6 is hosting the NYSATA conference being held in Rochester June 4th-6th!  For more information and registration please visit: https://gonysata.com/Annual_Conference___Meeting 

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Region 7 Report

Cleon Clayton, MS, LAT, ATC, CPT - Representative

Scan and follow us on Instagram! Let us grow our social media together.

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Committee Chairs

Awards

Deanna Errico, PT, DPT, LAT, ATC

Region 4, College/University

College and University

Jeff Carter, MSEd, LAT, ATC, EMT-B, CSCS

Region 2, College/University 

Conference and Education

Vacant

Diversity and Inclusion

EDAC Chair

LaTonja Lee, MS, LAT, ATC, PES

Region 1LI, College/University

Fundraising

Thomas Burns, MS, LAT, ATC

Region 2, Secondary School

Governmental Affairs

Aimee Brunelle, MS, LAT, ATC

Region 3, Secondary School

Deanna Errico, PT, DPT, LAT, ATC

Region 4, College/University

Hall of Fame

Bob Gariglio, MSEd, LAT, ATC

Region 1 LI, Secondary School

History and Archives

Vacant

Joseph Abraham Award

Meg Greiner, MS, LAT, ATC

Region 2, Secondary School

Membership and Nominations

Shawn McNamara, DAT, LAT, ATC

Region 1 LI, College/University

Newsletter

Vacant

Public Relations

Vacant

Research/Injury

Vacant

Scholarships

Patrick M. Donnelly, EdD, LAT, ATC

Region 5, College/University

Secondary School

Craig Olejniczak, LAT, ATC

Region 2, Secondary School

Social Media

Vacant

Webmaster

Vacant

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Governmental Affairs Report

Aimee Brunelle, MS, LAT, ATC and Deanna Errico, PT, DPT, LAT, ATC - Co-Chairs
Karin Spencer - Spencer Strategic Solutions, LLC

Why is this a big deal?

This was a long process but there are benefits to having licensure status along with all other health care professionals (HCP). who already have this status. It has the potential to improve our collaborative with other HCP and open other practice opportunities. It may have been a little scary to change our practice act, but when addressing licensure, it didn’t make sense to not make changes in a document that ended up being over 30 years old by the time our bill passed in 2023.  We also passed a traveling AT law that coincided with our licensure enactment dat. This law does improve our situation from our previous practice act.

What are we working on now?

Amendments to our law

·         There are still a few things in the practice act that could use a tweak and so the GA continues to work with our lobbyist, Karin Spencer, to work towards making those adjustments through amendments.

Concussion Outreach Prevention Education (COPE)

·         We continue to work with the Brain Injury Association of New York State (BIANYS) to provide presentations educating about concussion and we have many other projects relating to COPE that are in full swing. 

·         We will pursue the COPE Grant again for the 2026-2027 fiscal year.

Legislative Memos

·         We are working with the American Heart Association and American College of Cardiologists to educate about a potential bill that would change pre-participation exams in high school athletes (A.2697A & S.3503). (NYSATA has provided a memo because we feel this bill needs changes before being brought to the floor and we feel legislators should see how the Cardiac Emergency Response Plan (CERP) law (A.785 & S.5539A) that passed last year works once it is being applied) 

·         There is a concussion bill - Concussion safety act A.5383A – which would be an amendment to distribute concussion education to an expansion of 5 more youth sports (it previously was only Football and was the basis of our COPE work).

Lobby Day 

You’re invited to Lobby Day on Wednesday, March 18th, an important opportunity to advocate for our profession and influence key legislation. 

Why Attend?

Advocacy is essential to advancing athletic training. While we've successfully passed the AT licensure bill, our work continues. NYSATA is actively involved in shaping laws related to COPE funding, youth sport concussion education, and more.

On Lobby Day, you'll meet with state senators and assembly members in Albany to discuss legislation that impacts our field. If it’s your first time attending, experienced members will guide you through the process - you will not be alone in your meetings!

Event Details

- Wednesday, March 18th in Albany
- We meet at 9AM, begin meetings at 10am and wrap up by 3-4PM.
- If you can’t attend the full day, let us know… we’ll do our best to arrange meetings based on your availability.
- As the event approaches, we will provide additional details, including directions and what to expect.
- We will provide an information folder for you to share with your representatives.

How to Participate

We will schedule meetings with your representatives. Please RSVP by Wednesday February 18, so we can coordinate accordingly.

RSVP Form

Questions?

Contact us at [email protected]. Let’s team up, speak up, and make a difference - because who better to advocate for athletic trainers than athletic trainers themselves? 

See you in Albany!

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GA Needs Your Help

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Conference and Education Report

Looking Ahead to our 2026 Annual Meeting & Conference

As we continue moving toward our 2026 milestones, I am excited to share that registration is now live for the 2026 NYSATA Annual Meeting & Conference, taking place June 5–6, 2026, in Rochester, NY. This event represents not only an opportunity to earn up to 9.5 CEUs, but also a meaningful moment in our Association’s history as we celebrate 50 years of NYSATA. For more information about this fun filled, educational event check out the Annual meeting and conference webpage! Make sure you register before February 22nd to receive the Early Bird Discount!

Lodging Now Open

Lodging for attendees is officially open and starting at a discounted rate of $129/night + tax: Please follow the directions below to obtain the discounted rate!

Booking Instructions:

1. Click “Book Now” on the hotel page
2. Open the dropdown labeled “Add Code”
3. Select “Group Attendee”
4. Enter Group Code: 260205NYAT
5. Click “Update Guests & Rooms” to finalize your reservation
   
   

Room Rate Cutoff: April 21, 2026

🎉 50th Anniversary Celebration Dinner

To commemorate this milestone, NYSATA will host a 50th Anniversary Celebration Dinner on Friday, June 5, 2026, at the RIT Inn. This evening will honor our Past Presidents, Founding Members, and long-standing contributors who helped shape the Association into what it is today. The celebration starts at 6pm with cocktail hour and we’ll celebrate through the night! Tickets are now available and space is limited, early registration is encouraged.

📬 Past Presidents & Founding Members

If you are a Past President or Founding Member of NYSATA, please check your email sent on January 9th 2026, and complete the form that was sent to you. This information will help us appropriately recognize your service as part of our anniversary programming.

Thinking of Bringing your Family to Rochester?

We would like to thank our friends at Rochester Sports Commission for assisting us in building this year's event! Watch this short clip on what you can do in Rochester! If you are looking for more fun activities to do in Rochester, inquire with Phil Steckley at [email protected]!

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Fundraising Report

Thomas Burns, MS, LAT, ATC - Chair

We are excited to announce the launch of our Corporate Sponsorship program. For those interested, please contact the NYSATA fundraising chair. 

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Joseph Abraham Award Report

Meg Greiner MS, LAT, ATC - Chair

The 2026 Joseph Abraham Award winner is Syosset High School and 

Athletic Trainers Stephen Tozer, Lauren Beek, and Robert Gariglio.

Congratulations!

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Membership and Nominations Report

Shawn McNamara, DAT, LAT, ATC -  Chair 

Volunteer Opportunities

Get involved, make connections, strengthen our profession. 

Why Volunteer: 

Volunteering with NYSATA is more giving your time, it's a chance to connect grow and lead. 

You'll gain: 

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Hall of Fame Report

Robert Gariglio, MSEd, LAT, ATC - Chair 

The Hall of Fame display at Cortland remains open for visitors. If you are in the Cortland area, we encourage you to stop by and enjoy the presentation, which runs on a continuous loop on the display screen. The Hall of Fame presentation is also available on the NYSATA website at https://gonysata.com/Hall_of_Fame.

The Hall of Fame Committee has designed commemorative pins for all Hall of Fame inductees. Of the 19 NYSATA members currently inducted, pins have been delivered to 17 inductees or their families. If anyone has contact information for Tom Sheehan or Steve Norman, or their families, please contact Robert Gariglio of the NYSATA Hall of Fame Committee at [email protected].

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Scholarships Report

Patrick Donnelly, EdD, LAT, ATC - Chair 

The New York State Athletic Trainers’ Association Scholarship Committee is proud to announce the recipients of our annual scholarship program.

              District II Scholarship – Emma Burns, Stony Brook University

              NYSATA Ethnic Diversity and Inclusion Scholarship – Darion Frederick, University at Buffalo

              Paul Demartinis Memorial Scholarship – Sammi Meyer, Ithaca College

              Ed Abramoski Scholarship – Maya Mangual, Stony Brook University

              NYSATA Memorial Scholarship – Brianna Vezzose, University at Buffalo

              NYSATA Scholarship – Sydney Anderson, University at Buffalo

For more information on these amazing students and their accomplishments, keep an eye on our social media.

Award Winner Brianna Vezzose, University of Buffalo

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